Food Chain - Issue 196 - October 2023 | Page 116

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100 people were required to operate the plant in which we manufacture our mini-potato products . However , we decided to open a new facility equipped with automated sorting and sizing equipment . This advanced technology enabled us to achieve the same level of production output as the old plant , but with a considerably reduced workforce of approximately 20-to-25 individuals . On the farming front , we have incorporated GPS technology into our tractors , resulting in significantly enhanced efficiency . This advanced feature enables precise navigation and seed placement , which can have a positive impact on yield and quality .
Potandon is the exclusive supplier of fresh potatoes and onions under the Green Giant Fresh label
Tackling transportation
“ While automation has brought significant advancements to the manufacturing process , there are certain aspects that cannot be fully automated . One such challenge lies in the transportation of produce from production sites to the marketplace , which incurs substantial costs . Over the years , these transportation expenses have continued to rise , exerting a significant impact on the US produce business . Traditionally , most of the produce was grown in the west of the US and shipped to the east , but that is becoming less and less viable right now ,” he adds .
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